Is Kelowna worth visiting?

Yes, it is a beautiful city with a great wine scene and outdoor activities.

How long is the flight?

Direct flights are approximately four and a half hours long.

A car is highly recommended for visiting wineries and exploring the area.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer and early autumn offer the best weather.

Yes, the drive through the Rockies is very scenic.

Markham

Kelowna

Flight Driving

Markham to Kelowna

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Markham to Kelowna covers approximately 3,500 kilometers. Flying from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is the most practical method, taking about four and a half hours. Driving is a significant trip, requiring at least 40 hours of driving time along the Trans-Canada Highway through the Rocky Mountains. Ensure you plan for overnight stops if you choose to drive.

Total Distance: 3,500 km driving distance; 2,900 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

A direct flight from Toronto Pearson to Kelowna International is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Flying with budget airlines is often the most cost-effective way to reach Kelowna.

Compare Markham to Kelowna Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	40 hours
Avg Price	250-600 CAD	450-700 CAD
Operator	WestJet	Personal Vehicle
Route	YYZ to YLW.	Hwy 401 to Hwy 1.
Tip	The airport is about 20 minutes from downtown Kelowna.	The drive through the Rockies is stunning but requires mountain driving experience.

Travel Tips

Airport Transport
Use a taxi or shuttle service to get from the airport to downtown.
Wine Tasting
Book wine tours in advance, especially during the busy summer season.
Driving Safety
If driving, be prepared for steep mountain passes and winding roads.
Weather
Kelowna has a semi-arid climate; it gets very hot in the summer.
Booking
Book flights and accommodation early for summer travel.